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Thursday, 21 July 2016

Tilicho Lake Trek

Tilicho Lake trek

Tilicho Lake is a lake located in the Manang district of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 4,919 metres in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas. Tilicho Lake is the destination of one of the most popular side hikes of the Annapurna Circuit trek. The hike takes additional 3–4 days. Tilicho Lake lies peacefully at the centre of the surrounding peaks of Tilicho and Nilgiri. This trek adventure is challenging. This special trek route branches off from the main circuit from Manang and then rejoins at Yak Kharka. Then from Yak kharka the trial leads to Thorong La pass, the highest pass of the world (5416 meters). Thus this trek combines two main adventures of Annapurna region. The mesmerizing feel of Tilicho Lake and stunning views of Mountains makes this trial a wonderful trip. You can capture the views of Lamjung Himal (Himal means Mountain in Nepalese term), Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Nilgiri Mountain and Chulu Peak.

From Tilicho Lake you also have the option of crossing the challenging pass of Moesokanta La Pass” to Jomsom instead of traveling to the Thorung La pass but proper additional equipment including tented camps are required to go through this pass.

Outline Itinerary of Tilicho lake Trekking Route

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Besishahar (800m)

Day 04 : Nadi to Jagat (1,300m.)

Day 05: Jagat to Dharapani (1900m.)

Day 06: Dharapani to Chame (2710m)

Day 07: Chame to Pisang (3250m)

Day 08: Pisang to Manang (3540m)

Day 09: Acclimatization day in Manang

Day 10: Manang to Khangsar village (3734m)

Day 11: Khangsar Village to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m)

Day 12: Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek

Day 13: Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m)

Day 14: Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550)

Day 15: Throng Phedi - Thorong La pass (5416m)and Muktinath (3800m )

Day 16: Muktinath to Kagbeni (2800m)

Day 17: Kagbeni to Marpha (2670m)

Day 18: Marpha to Kalopani (2550m)

Day 19: Kalopani to Tatopani (1200m)

Day 20: Tatopani to Ghorepani

Day 21: Ghorepani to Poon Hill(3210m) and Trek to Tadapani (2540m)

Day 22 : Tadapani to Ghandruk ( 1990m)

Day 23: Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Day 24: Pokhara Free day

Day 25: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu

Day 26: Departure

Detail Itinerary of Tilicho lake Trekking Route

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at the airport, meet and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, you have an option to be escorted stroll around Thamel and the local streets of Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

After breakfast, start sightseeing covering the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu, which are Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa. Kathmandu Durbar Square area holds the palaces of the medieval Kings who ruled over the Kathmandu Kingdom. Swayambhu meaning the “the self-existent” is popular among the foreigners as Monkey Temple owing to the large number of monkey population residing in this area. It is said that Swayambhunath Stupa is more than 2,000 years old, and it symbolizes knowledge. The painted eyes on all four sides symbolize the all-seeing power of Buddha. It is an important Buddhist place where pilgrims from all over the world come. In the afternoon you will get short briefing and discussion regarding your trek.

We will start our trip early Morning as we will drive Vehicle along the trishuli river and after Mugling we follow Marshyangdi river and we will reach in Besisahar. After that we will change another bus to Bulbule and start to trek for Nadi While travelling, we will see beautiful green hills and Annapurna Himalayas range We can see also beautiful small villages, greeneries, farms, people doing their daily choirs, etc. We can see those views throughout travelling. From Besisahar if we start to trek we can also it take another hour extra. Nadi is a small village suited in bank of Marshyangdi river

Day 04 : Nadi to Jagat (1,300m.)

Trekking distance 12 km approximately 6 Hours walks.

We will pass some beautiful village and local people same time we will pass some suspension bridge and passing few spectacular waterfalls. we will reach Bahundanda ( 1310m). After that the trail descend through the terraced, rice fields and small streams until we reach Syange. After Syange the path ascends steeply and brings us to Jagat village where Tamang and Gurung are the main inhabitants. One the way, we can see Mt. Lamjung (6983m)Manaslu (8156m) and Peak 29 known as Nadi chuli (7871m)

Day 05: Jagat to Dharapani (1900m.)

Trekking distance 15 km approximately 7 Hours walks.

From Jagat the trail descends to the Marsyangdi following the riverbank before climbing up through forests to Chamje (1430m) we can see beautiful Water fall . The trail initially crosses the river to the east bank and climbs up to the large settlement of Tal , which is first village of Manang District From Tal we can see beautiful waterfall. Crossing and recrossing the river as it makes its way to Karte, the trail finally crosses again to the west bank before continuing through the village of Dharapani

Day 06: Dharapani to Chame (2710m)

Trekking distance 16 km approximately 7 Hours walks

From Dharapani we will passes some beautiful village which are suited in bank of Marshyangdi River when we arrive in Danaque the trail starting climbing uphill through the forests of rhododendron and oak with beautiful views of Manaslu (8154m) on the back. Upon reaching Timang Danda we will have spectacular views of the Himalayas. And we will walk towards Chame passing small villages like Talamarang, Thanchok and Koto. Chame is district headquarters of Manang This place will serve magnificent views of Annapurna II(7,937) and Lamjung Himal (6,932) ahead of us, and Manaslu (8,154) and Ngadi Chuli (7,871) behind us

Day 07: Chame to Pisang (3250m)

Trekking distance 13 km approximately 6 Hours walks

End of the Chame Village we will cross Marshyangdi river and enter the forests of pines. The trail enters inside small valley with gentle ups. We will then meet Bratang village from there we can see really huge cliff and after cross the rocky and Cliffy path again we will cross the Marshyangdi river and climb up and reach Dhukur Pokhari. From Dhukur Pokhari we will walk flat and we reach Pisang where spectacular views of Annapurna Himalayas range and Pisang Peak (6091m)

Day 08 Pisang to Manang (3540m)

Trekking distance 19 km approximately 9 Hours walks Upper trail

Trekking distance 15 km approximately 6 Hours walks Lower Trail

From Pisang to Manang we offers a choice in trails

1) Lower Route ( Suggest for Porter )

It is very easy route little little climb up and cross the Humde village where we can see airport and continue follow the flat way we will arrive in Braga and Manang ( suggest our porter will follow the lower route so manage your necessary things we will meet our porter in Manang ) according to your interested we can follow the lower route , we can see beautiful scenery of Pisang peak(6091m, Tilicho peak(7134m) and Annapurna Himalayas range

2) Higher Route ( Suggest for guide and Guest )

The Higher route is quite top route , after pass the pine forest we cross the Suspension bridge and start to climb up to Gharu (3700m) is a beautiful view point and chorten from where we can see lower route of manang , we continue walk onward to Ngawal (4000m) villages. on the way we can see amazing view of Annapurna II (7937m) , Annapurna IV(7525m), Pisang peak (6091m) , Tilicho Peak (7134m) ,Tilicho valley Gangapurna (7455m) and Very old style house and local people . After Ngawal village continue down to Munji where we can Meet lower route and cross Bragha (3450m) and arrive in Manang ,

Manang village is one of the most popular villages of Annapurna circuit trekking route . This village is an acclimatization stop point for every travelers. Situated in front of the beautiful Annapurna Himalayan range,

Day 09 : Acclimatization day in Manang

Today is the schedule for acclimatization. However, we do not spend worth less at the lodge. It is highly suggested to climb up and stay overnight at low altitude so our body can adjust the high altitude climate. from manang we can choose any one of them for a day trip

In Afternoon Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) provide altitude lectures for the trekkers and it will be worth attending one of those lectures. They give some useful tips on how to battle through the next 3 days to Thorung La pass. They will also explain the acclimatizing principle of "climb high and return to sleep in the low".

Gangapurna Glacier viewpoint /Chongar Viewpoint/ Gangapurna Tea shop

From the main Village we drop around 15 minute and cross the Marshyangdi River and Continue climb up to Chongar Viewpoint, quite steep but amazing 360 degree views from the top. Recommended especially if you're not visiting Ice Lake or Tilicho Lake.

Visiting Praken Gompa /100 rupees lama (3945 m)

Praken Gompa just 400 m above the manang Village where one old monk Tashi Lama stay there and give the blessing for Trekkers for successful of throng la pass. It was really a great experience no one could forget it. From Praken Gompa we can see beautiful views of the Annapurna Himalayas range and Tilicho peak . This trip also perfect for acclimatization.

Ice Lake (4620m)

One of the most impressive viewpoints on the Annapurna circuit trekking routr is Ice Lake (Kicho Tso, 4620m). It takes about 5 hours to climb 1000m from Manang Village , it’s straight uphill the whole way to the Lake which is considered sacred by Buddhists.

Day 10: Manang to Khangsar village (3734m)

Trekking distance 6 km approximately 4 Hours walks

Descending from old Manang and passing by Chorten reach a Marsyangdi river, cross a suspension bridge over Jharsing Khola (stream It is possible to cross the ridge north of Annapurna IV, II, and Glacier Dome or to descend from village to the glacial lake at the foot of a huge icefall descending from the northern slopes of Gangapurna. The trail stays close to the river bed and soon we approach Khangsar, superb view of the Great Barrier open up. Where we can find a small monastery, chorten, Mani walls and prayer flags.

Day 11: Khangsar Village to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m)

Trekking distance 8 km approximately 5 Hours walks

From Khangsar the trail climbs steeply past the Gompa and small chortens, trail goes through juniper and sea buckthorn bushes. The path is quite covered by small crystals and shrubs can be seen on both sides. Some places along the trail you cross a few streams.You reach a crest (4650m) with prayer flags after the wearying clim and then through a series of zigzags down a scree slope bring you to the Tilicho Base Camp Hotel. From here you can enjoy the closer and panoramic views of Tilicho Mountain and many others. Tilicho Lake is situated at the highest altitude so we set our camp today here at low.

Day 12: Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp

Trekking distance 12 km approximately 8 Hours walks ( both way )

The trail to the Tilicho Starts up a side valley then traverses onto a moraine, making a long climb to 4710m. There are outstanding view of Tarke Ghyang, Gangapurna and the Khangsar Kang. Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world at (4920m), presents a particularly dramatic spectacle. Sometimes its turquoise water reflects the surrounding peaks but more often its frozen solid. After spending the memorable time at Tilicho Lake, we will trek down to Tilicho base camp via same way for overnight stay.

Day 13: Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m)

Trekking distance 8 km approximately 6 Hours walks

The trail continues to climb out of the Marsyangdi Valley. The trail follows this valley north, passing a Goths as it steadily gains elevation. You have left the large trees below; the vegetation now consists of scrub juniper and alpine grasses. you can keep high and follow a track 400m or so above Khangsar village passing through the ruins of old Khangsar and follow an unmarked trail which will lead you around and down to cross the river on an old log bridge between Gunsang and Yak Kharka. It's fun to see large yaks grazing at Yak Kharka. The view of Annapurna III is excellent

Day 14: Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550)

Trekking distance 6 km approximately 4 Hours walks

After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village (4250m). We will climb and pass another suspension Bridge and cliffs ( need to be very careful landslide zone) before reaching Thorong Phedi. when we arrive there highly suggest climb up to high camp for the acclimatization and sleep early because tomorrow morning we will start our trip around 4 AM

We will have to set off early in the morning to reach the Top of thorong la before mid-day. The trail becomes instantly steep after leaving Phedi we will pass High camp (4850m) and continue trek to top we will passes tea house still climb and we will reach in Thorong la top (5416m) where we can see bunch of prayer flag and chorten, Further the trail descends steeply before reaching Chabarbu. From there we cross meadows, drops into a deep gorge, climbs out again, and follows a wide trail to Muktinath, a pilgrimage site held in great respect by both Hindus and Buddhists. on the way passes we leave the Annapurna Himalayas range and we will see massif Dhaulagiri (8167m) which is 7th highest mountain in the world

Day 16: Muktinath to Kagbeni (2800m)

Trekking distance 10km approximately 5 Hours walks for option 1

Trekking distance 13 km approximately 6 Hours walks for option 2

Option 1

Early morning wake up and look around Muktinath temple and after breakfast we trek to Kagbeni , Kagbeni is a entry gate of the Upper Mustang It is lies on bank of the Holy river Kaligandaki, we will passes very beautiful landscape and some village Jharkot and Khingar and when we turn back we will see the trail of Throng la when we will arrive in Kagbeni we will look around the old village and monastery

Option 2 ( Highly recommended one )

Early morning wake up and look around Muktinath temple and after breakfast we trek to Kagbeni Now we leave the motor road and trek through Chhangur, Jhong & Putak the Tibetan styled beautiful villages with its art, culture, religion and gompas. This trail is so splendid view of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains. The way is lower part of Mustang we meet the entry point of Kagbeni which is gateway to forbidden Mustang Kingdom. Then after the land looks like the moon desert until to reach the Kagbeni. Kagbeni is situated in the bank of the famous holy river Kali Gandaki and it is the Gateway to Upper Mustang. The monastery supposed to be some 500 yrs old which is situated in the town.

Day 17: Kagbeni to Marpha (2670m)

Trekking distance 16 km approximately 7 Hours walks

Now we are entering the windy gorge until Late. passing Jomsom where the airport is situated with the connection to Pokhara. Jomsom is the capital of Mustang district with the government offices and busy area . we continue trek to marpha Where is the most famous for Apple Garden. Marpha is the village of the Thakali peoples the local inhabitant. Before sunset we will look around Marpha and visit the Buddhist Monastery which is suited middle of the Village

Day 18: Marpha to Kalopani (2550m)

Trekking distance 17 km approximately 8 Hours walks

Walk the flat roads with most of Apple garden and barley, wheat & vegetation fields. our trail stretches at almost flat level we Will pass some Beautiful Village Tukuche(2590m) Kobang (2640m) Larjung (2550m) From we can see massif Dhaulagiri and Ice fall and we cross the Suspension Bridge and arrive in Kokkethathi (2525 m) then Kalopani. Kalopani is really Beautiful places from where we can see 1st time Annapurna I (8091m) so on we can see Dhaulagiri I (8167m) and Tukuche peak (6920m)

Day 19: Kalopani to Tatopani (1200m)

Trekking distance 19 km approximately 8 Hours walks

From Kalopani and Late we can see Beautiful Mountain and drop down to river and Cross the suspension bridge. arrive in Ghasa , which places is famous for Birding and the trail descends upto Rukse Chhahara (Rukse Waterfall) which is amazing to look at. There is situated the deepest gorge of the world between two mountains Annapurna I (8091m) and Dhaulagiri I (8167m) facing each other near Rukse Waterfall. The trail again descends slightly to Tatopani through different human settlements. we can enjoy the hot spring at Tatopani (Hot water) as the word Tatopani is termed after the natural hot spring situated at the bank of the Kali Gandaki river. It is popularly believed that taking bath in Hot Spring helps you to get rid of skin diseases. Along this, it gives you physical and mental refreshment as well, After Throng la pass it is best places for take a shower , chillout in Tatopani

Day 20: Tatopani to Ghorepani

Trekking distance 12 km approximately 6 Hours walk

Our trail passes through flat level till Ghar Khola. Then the trail begins ascending steeply till Durbin Dada . Now path goes up through Ghara villages where we can see tipical Nepali Faces called Brahmin and chhetri. Also we can see the paddy field land and tipical house .After cross Ghara (1700m) we reach in Shikha (1935m)where we can see magar people and continue passes shika we arrive in chitre from where we start to see Annapurna And Dhaulagiri Himalayas range pass the rhododendron forest we will arrive in Ghorepani , owo splendid view

Wake up early morning prepare for the sunrise , suggest wear warm clothes and take headlight start to Hike up to Poon Hill (3210m) 45 minute climb. from Poon Hill we can see beautiful sunrise and beautiful mountain from poon hill we can see Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhre (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), Lamjung Himal (6931m.) and other numerous snowcapped mountains Descend back to Ghorepani and after having breakfast After that, the trail steeply ascending until Deurali-La on a grassy knoll that offers good Mountain views similar to those from Poon Hill . Then the trail descends through deep rhododendron forest until reaching Banthanti . on the way we cross the north side of stream and it will offer great views over the gorge to Ulleri. A rocky trail descends steeply to small stream and climbing again through deep forests to Tadapani, a village which is surrounded by beautiful forests. You can see more magnificent view of Machhapuchre, Annapurna South, Himchuli and Annapurna II

Day 22 : Tadapani to Ghandruk ( 1990m)

Trekking distance 7 kms – Approximately 3.5 Hours walk

In the morning, after breakfast your trek slightly descending through the deep forests until reaching Baise Kharka smooth walking and descends again in the subtropical forest until reaching Ghandruk village. we can see a very good view of Fishtail, Annapurna South and other small snowy peak. Afternoon you will go to visit the Buddhist Monastery and Old Traditional Gurung Museum which are very nice to see during the Ghandruk Stay

Day 23: Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Trekking distance 10 kms – Approximately 5 Hours walk

Today is our final day for trekking, we slowly follow our trail back to Nayapul where we can take see beautiful local people and we cross the Paddy field, when we reach to Syauli bazaar the path is flat till Nayapul when we arrive in Nayapul then we drive Back to Pokhara .

Day 24: Pokhara Free day

After finish trekking pokhara is a really nice places for chill out , pokhara is very popular for paragliding so suggest for that and you can enjoy the boat ride in phewa lake which is beautiful lake in Nepal or if you like to do city tour we can do city tour and visit most popular places like Bindivashini Temple , Devi's Fall Gupteshwor cave , Tibetan refugee camp , Mountain museum old Bazaar Etc , in evening if you are interested for shopping it a best places for shopping

Day 25: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu(200km/6-7hrs). we can enjoy the diverse landscape and scenery en-route. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Day 26: Departure

You will be transfer to the International airport by Private vehicle according to your flight schedule.